What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head Gardener position at LDG Land LLC?
Overview:
Are you a passionate horticulturist with expertise in native plants and ecological gardening? Join our foundation as the Head Gardener to oversee and further develop an established estate designed by a renowned ecological landscape designer. The estate features managed woodlands, wetlands, and intricately designed plant communities that highlight the rich biodiversity of native plants of the Northeast. In addition to its ecological significance, the estate is home to a historic modernist residence, adding a unique cultural and architectural dimension to the site. As part of this role, the Head Gardener will also coordinate and collaborate with others on tours and programs that showcase the estate's natural beauty and historical significance. This role combines hands-on gardening with leadership, focusing on maintaining and enhancing the estate's established landscape. The estate follows a 100% chemical-free approach, emphasizing sustainability and environmental stewardship. The foundation also supports public garden tours and educational programs, with a vision to inspire visitors and promote the ecological importance of Northeast native plants.
Key Responsibilities:
- Hands-On Gardening: Actively engage in planting, pruning, weeding, and maintaining the estate's gardens and natural habitats. - Native Plant Propagation: Develop and manage a propagation program for native plants, including seed starting, cuttings, and division, to enhance the garden’s collections. - Crew Supervision: Oversee a small team of laborers to handle heavy maintenance tasks, ensuring that the estate’s high standards are met. - Composting Management: Oversee a large onsite compost system to support soil health and organic gardening practices. - Sustainable Land Management: Maintain the estate’s commitment to ecological stewardship with a 100% chemical-free approach, including the management of invasive species. - Collaboration on Tours and Programs: Work with other specialists to organize and lead tours, highlighting the estate’s gardens, natural habitats, and historic modernist home.
Qualifications:
- Educational Background: Practical experience in managing an estate like this and/or a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Horticulture, Botany, or Landscape Management. - Proven expertise in plant curation, propagation, and fine gardening techniques, particularly with Northeast native plants. - Strong knowledge of sustainable gardening methods and organic practices. - Ability to manage garden operations and lead a team. - Physical ability to perform outdoor gardening tasks across various terrains and weather conditions. - Excellent communication and collaboration skills to coordinate tours and engage with visitors.
What We Offer:
- Full-Time Position: Flexible scheduling to accommodate the needs of the estate. - Location: Work on-site at a beautifully maintained estate in Wilton, CT. - Living Option: Potential for on-site housing in the future.- Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience.
How to Apply:
If you are passionate about leading the care and development of a unique estate and enjoy hands-on gardening as a key part of your role, we’d love to hear from you! Please send your resume and a cover letter to rrdavt@protonmail.com with the subject line "Head Gardener Application." This is a rare opportunity to combine leadership with hands-on gardening, enhancing an already extraordinary landscape, promoting the ecological importance of native plants, and inspiring visitors with the beauty of Northeast biodiversity and a historic modernist home.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $60,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Ability to Commute:
- Wilton, CT (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Wilton, CT: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $60,000 - $100,000